As we step into 2025, I wanted to take a moment to review the routine tax and contribution limit changes that come with the new year. This episode focuses on the updated limits for 401(k)s, IRAs, HSAs, and other retirement plans, along with key adjustments to Social Security, the annual gift tax exclusion, and standard deductions. For instance, the 401(k) elective deferral limit is now $23,500 for those under 50, with a special new catch-up contribution for those aged 60-63. While most changes align with inflation, they’re crucial to understand for effective tax planning. Though income tax rates remain stable this year, bracket thresholds and deductions have been adjusted. I also touch on planning tips, like updating recurring contributions to retirement accounts. This isn’t to be confused with anticipated broader tax reforms from the incoming administration, which I’ll cover in a separate episode. Thanks for tuning in, and here’s to staying tax-savvy in 2025!

Key Takeaways:

• The 401(k), 403(b), and TSP elective deferral limit for those under 50 is now $23,500. For those 50 and older, the catch-up contribution remains $7,500, allowing a total of $31,000.

• A catch-up provision allows individuals aged 60-63 in 2025 to make an additional catch-up contribution of $3,750, bringing their total potential contributions to $35,250.

• The annual contribution limit for IRAs remains unchanged at $7,000, with an additional $1,000 catch-up for those 50 and older.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) limits have increased to $4,300 for individuals and $8,850 for families, with a $1,000 catch-up contribution for those 55 and older.

• The annual gift tax exclusion has increased to $19,000 per person, up $1,000 from 2024.

• The lifetime exemption amount for 2025 is $13.99 million per person, up from $13.61 million in 2024.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction to 2025 Tax Changes

(00:50) - 401k and Retirement Plan Updates

(02:30) - IRA and HSA Contribution Limits

(03:31) - SEP IRA and Solo 401k Limits

(04:11) - Social Security and Gift Tax Adjustments

(06:04) - Income Tax Rates and Deductions

(07:11) - Capital Gains and QBI Adjustments

(07:47) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/60

In this episode, I tackle key questions about estate tax and gifting strategies, highlighting the importance of proactive planning to pass wealth to future generations. Annual gifting is one of the simplest ways to remove money from your taxable estate without reducing your lifetime exemption per spouse. I clear up common misconceptions, such as the belief that gifts over $18,000 are taxable (they aren’t; they simply require reporting and reduce your lifetime exemption) and that recipients of gifts or inheritances owe taxes (they generally do not). I also discuss exceptions, like direct payments for educational or medical expenses, which don’t count toward gift limits and can be powerful tools for gifting. I wrap up by encouraging you to start thinking about your legacy and taking action now, especially if you’re a business owner or high-income earner. Tax laws can always change, so staying proactive now can help protect your family and create a lasting impact. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next year!

Key Takeaways:

• Be sure to keep track of and report your untaxed gifts. This is important to ensure they don’t end up counting against your lifetime exemption.

• Always get up to date with your state and local laws, and know how they interact with federal regulations.

• Wealth can come faster than you think. High earners in their 30s and 40s may end up surprised, and should keep an active plan for themselves and their heirs.

• Legislation changes. Wealth transfers are favored today, but the law may not always read that way. Active planning will help you leave something behind.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Understanding Estate Tax and Annual Gifting

(01:03) - Historical Context of Estate Tax Exemptions

(02:00) - Current Estate Tax Exemptions and Future Considerations

(03:50) - Annual Gift Tax Exclusion Explained

(08:08) - Misconceptions and Reporting Requirements

(10:30) - Exceptions to Gift Limits

(11:45) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

(13:16) - Closing Remarks and Resources

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show, Estate Planning, Wealth Transfer, Estate Tax, Gift, Financial Gifts, Tax Write Off

Mentions:

• IRS Form 709: https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-709

• State Estate Taxes: https://taxfoundation.org/data/all/state/estate-inheritance-taxes/

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/59

Erik discusses how the recent election win by Donald Trump and the Republican party could potentially impact your financial portfolio. Erik highlights three main areas of concern: financial markets and investments, interest rates, and taxes. The discussion covers possible inflationary effects, changes in financial market dynamics, expected volatility in interest rates, and potential tax code modifications. Erik emphasizes the importance of staying invested, monitoring interest rates, and understanding the likely changes in tax policies to make informed financial decisions in the coming years.

Key Takeaways:

• How will a Trump and Republican win affect financial markets and investments?

• What are the potential impacts on interest rates due to proposed policies and economic conditions?

• How might taxes change under a Republican majority, and what should individuals consider for tax planning?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction: Impact of Trump's Win on Finances

(01:23) - Financial Markets and Investments

(05:15) - Interest Rates and Their Implications

(08:11) - Tax Changes and Planning

(13:39) - Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/#5

I dive into the Southwest Companion Pass, a travel hack I’m currently using that offers huge savings for frequent travelers. The pass allows you to bring a companion along on any Southwest flight for just the cost of taxes, making it an incredible deal if you often fly with someone. To earn the pass, you need 135,000 qualifying points, which can be done efficiently through Southwest credit cards and carefully timing your spending to hit signup bonuses early in the year. I stress the importance of tracking expenses diligently to maximize the two-year eligibility period, ensuring you get the most value out of the pass. For me, the potential savings—$4,000 to $6,000 in travel value over two years—makes this a no-brainer, especially if you’re a responsible credit card user or a business owner. I also share tips for maintaining the pass long-term, like alternating eligibility with a spouse. If you fly Southwest frequently, this is an easy way to make your travel budget go much further.

Key Takeaways:

• The Companion Pass allows you to bring a companion on any Southwest flight for just the cost of taxes.

• Earning the pass early in the calendar year maximizes its value because it’s valid for the rest of that year and the entire following year. Aim to hit qualifying thresholds in January.

• The strategy only works if you pay off balances in full each month to avoid interest. Carrying debt undermines the benefits of the Companion Pass.

• You can requalify for the pass after 24 months by canceling your Southwest cards and reapplying. Many couples alternate who earns the pass to extend the benefit indefinitely.

• This hack is especially valuable for frequent travelers, those who live near Southwest hubs, and business owners or side giggers who can easily meet spending requirements.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction and Personal Hack

(00:25) - Understanding the Southwest Companion Pass

(01:29) - Steps to Earn the Companion Pass

(07:03) - Maximizing the Companion Pass Benefits

(10:28) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

(11:28) - Additional Resources and Farewell

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show

Mentions:

Companion Pass information: https://www.southwest.com/rapid-rewards/tiers/companion-pass/

Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Card: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/226o/JUSTZTPE0R

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/56

Today, I welcome Broc Buckles, co-founder of BC Brokerage, an insurance partner for fee-only financial planners specializing in diverse insurance types, including life, disability, and long-term care. We discuss BC Brokerage’s unique approach, emphasizing honesty and transparency, especially for military veterans and active-duty members who may face insurance hurdles due to health screenings. We highlight the importance of adequate life insurance, especially for transitioning military personnel, and explore how company-provided insurance might lack portability and sufficient coverage, urging listeners to secure personal policies early. Disability insurance is crucial, as statistics show that one in four 20-year-olds will experience a disabling event before retirement, often due to illness rather than injury. These events don't necessarily mean total incapacitation; they may simply impact regular work capacity. Desk workers, for instance, could experience back pain or chronic migraines, limiting work hours. We also discuss life insurance and underscore the value of working with fee-only planners, who prioritize clients' best interests over aggressive sales tactics typical of some large firms.

Key Takeaways:

• Broc’s approach to life and disability insurance.

• Why you must take advantage of plans offered by your employer.

• Which plans set you up best for when you leave the military.

• Why you need disability insurance - even if you’re in “perfect health”.

• How to compare costs of different brokers.

• How insurance prevents strain on your retirement funds.

Key Timestamps:

(00:38) - Understanding the Insurance Industry

(01:17) - BC Brokerage: A Unique Approach

(03:46) - Life Insurance for Military Members

(11:40) - Disability Insurance Insights

(17:40) - Insurance for Business Owners

(22:11) - Why Work with Fee-Only Planners?

(24:05) - Contact Information and Conclusion

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show, Disability Insurance, Life Insurance

Mentions:

Website: https://www.bc-brokerage.com/

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/55

I outline the top three year-end tax planning strategies that can benefit you this fall. I emphasize the importance of assessing your tax situation as the year draws to a close, highlighting that by this time, you typically have a clearer picture of your income and taxes due to bonuses and other financial events. The first strategy I discuss is Roth conversions, which can be advantageous in years of lower income, allowing you to pay taxes on the converted amounts now rather than later. The second strategy focuses on charitable contribution planning, particularly through donor-advised funds (DAFs) and using required minimum distributions (RMDs) to donate directly to charity, maximizing tax benefits while avoiding capital gains taxes. Finally, I touch on retirement account contributions, stressing how contributions to traditional accounts can lower your taxable income, especially if you’re a business owner. Overall, I provide practical advice for you to optimize your tax situation as the year ends.

Key Takeaways:

• Converting traditional pre-tax money to Roth accounts can be beneficial in low-income years, allowing you to pay taxes now rather than later.

• Having a mix of traditional and Roth accounts is important for tax management in retirement, providing flexibility in withdrawals.

• Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are a powerful tool for charitable giving, allowing for immediate tax deductions and avoiding capital gains taxes on appreciated stock.

• Individuals subject to required minimum distributions (RMDs) can donate their RMDs directly to charity to avoid increasing their taxable income.

• High-income earners can use backdoor Roth contributions to get money into Roth IRAs despite income limits.

• Implementing these strategies can result in significant tax savings, sometimes amounting to thousands of dollars in reduced taxable income.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - 3 Fall Tax Planning Moves for Veteran Business Owners

(01:25) - Understanding Roth Conversions

(02:52) - Benefits of Roth Conversions in Retirement

(04:05) - Charitable Contribution Planning

(04:45) - Utilizing Donor Advised Funds

(05:40) - Tax Benefits of Donor-Advised Funds

(06:48) - Required Minimum Distributions to Charity

(07:48) - Maximizing Retirement Account Contributions

(09:45) - Roth Conversions and Charitable Deduction Planning

(10:56) - End-of-Year Tax Strategies Recap

(11:31) - Closing Remarks and Resources

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show, DAFs, RMDs

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/54

I dive into the critical components of employee benefits packages during open enrollment season. I walk through key considerations like health insurance options (HSA and PPO plans), life insurance, and disability insurance, explaining how they fit into both personal and family financial plans. I also touch on underutilized benefits like dependent care FSAs, 401k matches, and ESPPs, emphasizing how to maximize these offerings based on individual needs. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder to evaluate your employer benefits annually, ensuring that they align with your unique financial goals and family situation.

Key Takeaways:

• Will securing long-term disability insurance with a private policy provide greater stability for you?

• When carefully planned, FSAs can help you save on taxes.

• Ways you can maximize your employer’s 401k match and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Fringe benefits often go unnoticed or unused. Pay special attention to opportunities for gym memberships, education assistance, and more.

• Regularly reassess your benefits during open enrollment to ensure they match your family’s changing needs, especially if you’re comparing offers from different employers.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Open Enrollment and Employee Benefits

(01:13) – Understanding Health Insurance Options

(03:36) – Life Insurance: What You Need to Know

(05:15) – The Importance of Disability Insurance

(07:38) – Dependent Care FSA: A Valuable Benefit

(09:14) – Maximizing Your 401k and ESPP

(10:51) – Other Important Employer Benefits

(11:39) – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show. ESPP, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, 401k match, fringe benefits, employee benefits, health insurance, disability insurance

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/53

In episode 52, I welcome my wife, Shelley Baskin, to talk about how we handle finances in our marriage. We share our thoughts on joint versus separate finances, the importance of open communication, and how we balance our individual spending preferences. We also dive into managing our household finances while running a business and setting long-term financial goals. Shelley and I emphasize how crucial shared values and honest communication are in creating financial harmony.

Key Takeaways:

• Should all accounts be joint? When should accounts become joint?

• Who pays for what? And is there a right answer?

• Monthly financial check-ins.

• How common values can guide financial decision making.

• When do prenups actually make sense?

• When the kids grow up, how do we want them to see money?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Welcome and Introduction

(00:56) – Joint vs. Separate Finances

(03:23) – Spending Priorities and Values

(10:17) – Monthly Financial Reviews

(12:04) – Business Finances and Household Impact

(14:10) – Early Financial Planning and Saving Strategies

(15:34) – Defining Financial Goals and Comfort

(19:40) – Views on Prenups

(21:40) – Teaching Kids About Money

(23:14) – Closing Thoughts and Resources

Key Topics Discussed:

BLUF Veteran Finance Podcast, Military Finance, Veteran Financial Planning, Military Money Management, VA Benefits, Military Retirement Planning, Financial Literacy for Soldiers, Military Budgeting Tips, Debt Management for Service Members, VA Loans, Military Investment Strategies, Saving for Deployment, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Transitioning to Civilian Life, Military Tax Benefits, Financial Independence for Veterans, Military Money Manual, The Military Money Show, marriage, common values, monthly financial check in

More of Baskin Financial Planning:

Download the Ultimate Military Finance Checklist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with 7 pages of critical things to be thinking about to clarify your journey to financial freedom.

Think you might need some financial help? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book an intro call with me to see if we would be a mutual fit.

Questions or comments, drop me a note at: erik@baskinfp.com

www.baskinfp.com/post/52